Pennsylvania’s measles outbreak remains the largest in the United States, with recent reporting putting the Amish and Plain communities of Lancaster and Mifflin Counties under renewed national attention.
According to The Guardian (2 November 2026), more than 150,000 MMR doses have been administered in the state since 1 August, including over 50,000 in October alone. A 2022 study found that fewer than one-third of Amish residents in Lancaster County had received the MMR vaccine. While there is no formal religious prohibition against vaccination, practical barriers, historical distrust of government mandates (especially after COVID), and community norms have kept rates lower than the general population.
State figures continue to show Pennsylvania accounting for a large share of the national total (CDC figures around 4,850–4,852 cases nationwide; PA near 1,400 with multiple deaths, including infants). Nearly two-thirds of PA cases have been in adults—unusual for measles, which typically hits young children hardest.
Also this week: the Once Upon a Farm Tractor Wheels toddler bars recall remains active for a sticky choking hazard in children 1.5–2.5 years old. Discard any remaining product and check pantries.
What parents can do:
Sources: The Guardian, Pennsylvania Department of Health, CDC data summaries, FDA recall notices.
Comments (0)
No comments yet.
Sign in to comment.